Group items tagged

"Virtual field trips can help students explore a new space, build vocabulary and background knowledge, and expand their world view. Whether you want to explore the setting of a novel, introduce a place-based math problem, or make connections to current events, virtual field trips can expand upon traditional lessons in many ways." Annotated list of free virtual field trip resources

"Getting kids to contribute in virtual classrooms takes some work, it turns out. "We keep calling this generation digital natives as if they are simply whizzes at everything computerized. They aren't," wrote Tim O'Brien on Facebook. "They need personal support, scaffolding, and reassurance that technology does not provide. It is simply a tool, not a teacher.""

360 video gives students the power to explore a space from every angle. YouTube hosts a range of 360 video content and one of my favorites is from the BBC. On the BBC's YouTube channel you'll find different types of video options for a virtual visit to places around the world. As you search through their content you'll see that they've tagged their videos as 360 to make it especially easy to find.

"Discussions that are centered in students' experiences spark more text-to-self connections and help students internalize concepts like empathy."

"While author studies can give useful background, there's nothing like talking with an author about the unique inspiration and process they go through in creating. This sense of connection is part of why people tell stories and become authors in the first place-we need to know we aren't alone. While this connection continues to be true, the truth is a universal one."

Guidance on library website design

"Some library websites feel disconnected from the library as a whole. Rather than looking at a library's web presence as a burden or an obligation, libraries should see their website as an extension of the library itself. Like the physical library space, library collections, and library services and programs, the library's website is an iterative project that requires maintenance and care. Websites should be updated and evaluated regularly. They must strive to meet the specific needs of the community the library serves."

As learning environments change, school libraries must evolve from providing information to students to preparing students as engaged critical thinkers, evaluators, ethical users and entrepreneurial creators of information and knowledge.

"Games that take students on a quest can invigorate social studies and strengthen bonds among learners. "